https://www.bulubox.com/blogs/bulu-box-blog.atomBulu Box - Bulu Box Blog2019-02-19T13:14:00-06:00Bulu Boxhttps://www.bulubox.com/blogs/bulu-box-blog/13-at-home-exercises-no-equipment-needed2019-02-19T13:14:00-06:002019-02-19T13:24:47-06:0013 at Home Exercises – No Equipment Needed!Account CoordinatorNo time for the gym? No problem. You can keep up your training routine right in the comfort of your own home. You don’t even need any complicated equipment to start.

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No time for the gym? No problem. You can keep up your training routine right in the comfort of your own home. You don’t even need any complicated equipment to start. All you need is to master these bodyweight exercises for you to increase your strength, tone your body and improve your mobility.

For these exercises, you don’t need any added weights because you only use your body weight as resistance. This is also known as calisthenics. Calisthenics is not a new concept. In fact, this form ofbodyweight strength training has a long history of being used to effectively build strength and muscle mass.

If you want to start a calisthenics practice, here are 13 incredible exercises that you can do anytime, anywhere!

1.Pushup

You should start in a high plank position with your shoulders over your wrists.

Your core, glutes, and legs must be engaged.

Next, bend the elbows to lower your chest to the floor. Your elbows should point back at a 45-degree angle.

Push back up to starting position, while keeping your hips in line with the rest of the body

Repeat for 10 to 15 reps

2.Air Squat

Start by standing with your feet just wider than hip-width apart.

Your toes should be pointed slightly out, and hands should be clasped at your chest for balance.

Send your hips back and bend your knees to lower down as far as possible with your chest lifted.

Press through your heels back up to your starting position.

Repeat for 10 to 15 reps.

3.Plank

Your starting position should be on all fours, your shoulders over your wrists.

Your body should form a straight line from shoulders to hips to heels.

You should think like you are pulling your belly button up toward the spine to keep your back flat.

You should hold this position for 30 to 60 seconds.

4.Shoulder Bridge

You should lie face up, with your knees bent, and feet planted on the floor.

Next, place your arms down by your sides.

Contract your glutes and lift your hips toward the ceiling as high as possible you draw hands together below.

Then, lower back down and repeat the move for 10 to 15 reps

5.Triceps Dip

Start by sitting down on a bench or box with your feet planted on the floor.

Place your hands behind you on the edge of a seat.

Then, lift your hips up to slide off the seat.

Bend your elbows to lower butt to the floor.

Push back up and repeat the move for 10 to 15 reps.

6. Walking Lunge

Start by standing with your feet hip-width apart.

Next, step forward with your right foot, bending both of your knees to 90 degrees.

Drive through your right heel to stand, while stepping your left foot forward and dropping into a lunge on the left side.

Continue walking forward while making sure your back knee hovers just off the floor with each step.

Do this lunge for 10 to 15 reps per side.

7.Plyo Lunge

Start by standing with your feet hip-width apart.

Next, step your left foot back and lower your body into a lunge, with your knees forming 90-degree angles.

Drive through your right heel to jump up, switching your legs in the air.

You should land in a lunge position with your left leg forward.

Alternate the lunges and try to increase the time in the air rather than on the ground.

Do this exercise 10 to 15 reps per side.

8.Heel Drop

Start by standing with your left foot on a step and your right heel hanging off the edge.

Then bend your left knee to lower your right heel below the step, then press back up.

Repeat this for 10 to 15 reps. then, repeat on other leg.

9.6-Inch Hold

Start by laying down face up with your legs straight, arms by your sides.

Your hands should be positioned below your glutes for support.

Lift your legs just six inches off the ground.

Then, draw your belly button to your spine to keep your lower back from lifting up off the ground.

Hold the position for 30 to 60 seconds.

10.Mountain Climber

You should start in a high plank position, with your shoulders over your wrists, and your core engaged.

Make sure your body forms a straight line from shoulders to hips to heels.

Engage your glutes and thighs to keep your legs straight.

Drive your left knee in toward your chest, then quickly step it back to plank position.

Immediately drive your right knee in toward your chest, then quickly step it back into plank position.

Continue alternating your knees for 10 to 15 reps per side.

11.Leg Lift

Start by laying down face up, legs straight, and hands under your glutes for support.

Keeping your lower back flat against the ground, lift your legs up toward the ceiling, while keeping your knees as straight as possible.

Slowly lower your legs back down toward the floor.

Continue to press your lower back into the ground.

When your legs hover just an inch off the floor, lift them back up and repeat this move for 10 to 15 reps.

12.Bicycle Crunch

Start by laying down face up with both your hands behind your head, elbows wide, and legs in a tabletop position with your knees over your hips.

Pull your right shoulder off the ground to bring your right elbow toward your left knee, as you extend your right leg straight.

Reverse this move by drawing your left elbow to your right knee as you extend your left leg straight.

Continue alternating the move for 10 to 15 reps per side.

13.Superman

Start by laying down face up with your legs extended and your hands placed on the ground in front of your forehead.

Next, lift your arms, chest, and legs off the floor.

Contract your glutes and thighs and relax your shoulders and neck.

Lower back down to the starting position and repeat the move for 10 to 15 reps.

About the Author:

Rebecca Smith started calisthenics at age 26 as a means to lose weight and tone her body. After completing her first successful muscle up, the amazing feeling inspired her to train further and become a full-time calisthenics instructor. Rebecca also holds a Management Degree and a Diploma in Nutrition.

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https://www.bulubox.com/blogs/bulu-box-blog/breaking-down-fad-diets2019-02-13T09:48:00-06:002019-02-13T12:17:25-06:00Breaking Down Fad DietsAccount CoordinatorOver 45 million people decide to change their diet every year. We decided to break down some of the most popular diets to help you decide what is best for your body. Remember, each diet affects your body differently, so it is important to consult your doctor to make sure it’s right for you!

Over 45 million people decide to change their diet every year. We decided to break down some of the most popular diets to help you decide what is best for your body. Remember, each diet affects your body differently, so it is important to consult your doctor to make sure it’s right for you!

Keto

What is it?

The Keto diet is buzzing around the internet this year. The goal of the diet is to help your body burn fat more efficiently. The name “Keto” of “Ketogenic” comes from “Ketosis” which is a normal metabolic process. Ketosis is when your body doesn’t have enough carbohydrates from food for your cells to use as energy, so they burn fat instead. To enter a state of Ketosis, your body needs to produce Ketones, which come from eating a small number of carbs. Sometimes entering a state of Ketosis takes months, but results in constant fat burning. Other benefits include less hunger, weight loss, and increased energy.

What to eat:

Unprocessed meats

Fish

Eggs

Nuts and berries in moderation

Leafy above-the-ground vegetables

High-fat dairy products (ie. butter, cheese, and yogurt)

On a Keto diet, avoid carbohydrates. Instead, eat unprocessed meats and fish. It’s important not to add extra meat to your diet because this not a high protein diet. Eggs are great to eat on the Keto diet. Leafy vegetables found above the ground are low in carbs, making them Keto-friendly.

Paleo

What is it?

Mimicking the diets of our ancestors is what the Paleo diet is all about. Because our ancestors didn’t have processed foods, they consumed a high protein diet. Their resources were animals, fish, fruits, and vegetables. Benefits of a Paleo diet are increased consumption of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The Paleo diet creates a balance between dietary acid and alkaline levels. Benefits include reducing the risk of chronic disease, increased energy, and weight loss.

What to eat:

Grass-fed meats

Seafood

Eggs

Fresh fruits and vegetables

Nuts and seeds

Healthy oils/fats

Mediterranean

What is it?

Rated the #1 Diet by U.S News, the Mediterranean Diet is based on heart health. This diet is based on the cooking style of countries near the Mediterranean Sea because their diets link to lower risk of heart complications. The staple foods in a Mediterranean Diet are fruits and vegetables, pasta, and olive oil. Cutting down on red meat and salt intake are important parts of this diet. Benefits include heart health, weight loss, and cancer prevention.

What to eat:

Fruits and vegetables

Whole grains, legumes, and nuts

Fish and poultry

Healthy fats (ie. olive oil and canola oil)

Red wine (optional and in moderation)

Low-fat dairy

Each of these diets has benefits and risks, before you choose a diet, conduct your own research and consult a doctor. Keep an eye on our social media pages, we are posting a recipe targeting one of these diets. Can you guess which one? Happy eating!

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https://www.bulubox.com/blogs/bulu-box-blog/7-health-benefits-of-probiotics2019-02-04T15:45:00-06:002019-02-04T15:45:28-06:007 Health Benefits of ProbioticsAccount CoordinatorYou might be thinking, what’s the big deal about probiotics? My digestive system is fine! I don’t need to add another daily supplement to my routine. I heard probiotics are bacteria, and that’s gross. But many health benefits come from taking probiotics.

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You might be thinking, what’s the big deal about probiotics? My digestive system is fine! I don’t need to add another daily supplement to my routine. I heard probiotics are bacteria, and that’s gross. But many health benefits come from taking probiotics. This blog post will dive into the world of probiotics and why you should be taking them.

Add Balance to Your Digestive System

The most well-known benefit of probiotics is balancing out your digestive system. Probiotics are essentially “good bacteria” that fight the harmful bacteria in your gut. When the harmful bacteria outnumber the good, toxins can be leaked into the bloodstream. Adding balance to your gut can reduce the risk of toxins entering the bloodstream, help with diarrhea, constipation, IBS, and more digestive issues. Improved gut health can lead to other positive body changes too.

Improve Mental Health

Having stomach pains can be frustrating and negatively impact your mood and mental health. Imagine not knowing what was wrong with you, only to find out that it could be fixed by bringing some balance to your gut. There is an increasing number of studies comparing gut health to mood. Probiotics in no way can cure mental health conditions, but they can improve mood and mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, memory, and stress.

Weight Loss

Fluctuating weight is a sign your gut is unhealthy. Probiotics can help regulate your weight by creating a stable environment in your body. When harmful bacteria take over, your body isn’t fully able to absorb proper nutrients, causing you to overeat. Also, some probiotics prevent the absorption of dietary fat and instead cause it to be excreted instead of stored. Not all probiotic strains will help you lose weight, so it is important to chat with your doctor about what is right for your body.

Immune Boost

An unhealthy gut blocks the proper use of your immune system. Adding balance can boost the immune system. Certain probiotic strains can also improve the production of antibodies in your immune system.

Better Skin

Balance in the body leads to improvements in unlikely areas, like skin! Harmful bacteria on your skin triggers the immune system which leads to inflammation and redness on the skin. When gut health is poor, certain proteins can leak which affects skin health and causes eczema. Leaking toxins can also cause premature wrinkles.

Decrease Food Intolerances

Food Intolerances are caused by harmful bacteria creating problems digesting specific types of foods. Digestive issues are resolved with probiotics making specific foods more tolerable in your stomach. Give your gut time to let the healthy bacteria do their job, then plan a visit to your favorite Indian restaurant.

Sleep Quality

Serotonin is a chemical mostly found in your digestive system and improves sleep and mood. Poor gut health impacts the serotonin production, thus affecting rest. Since probiotics increase gut health, they also can improve sleeping habits.

Make sure you contact your doctor before taking probiotics. There are many different strains of probiotics, so it is important to find which ones are right for your body.

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https://www.bulubox.com/blogs/bulu-box-blog/our-5-fave-products-january-20192019-01-29T16:11:00-06:002019-02-01T17:57:27-06:00Our 5 Fave Products - January 2019Account Coordinator
There is nothing better than the excitement of trying something for the first time. Bulu Box is like a monthly discovery kit that helps you live your best life. The January box is packed with so many goodies! We wanted to go through our favorite products and explain why we love them. So buckle up and get ready to find your new holy grail product…

Toss out your energy drinks because there’s a new sheriff in town. Togavo is the perfect solution to conquer the midday slump. Caffeine, vitamins, and electrolytes all in one drink with subtle, refreshing flavors. They are all great, but the office-favorite seems to be lemon-lime. The versatility of Togavo is perfect for any lifestyle.

While you have your boost of energy from Togavo, you can finally tackle the laundry! Defunkify is different from other laundry detergents. It uses all sorts of cool science and technology to deep clean clothing on a microscopic level. We all have those workout clothes that never seem to lose the sweaty smell. Fear not, one wash will have your clothes smelling great and you feeling confident and fresh for your workout.

Finding a protein shake that doesn’t have a chalky taste is a feat on its own. Plant Fusion nailed the taste of their Complete Lean shakes. Honestly, we don’t know how they made it taste so good! If you’re looking for a morning boost, try mixing it with cold brew coffee for a vanilla frappuccino taste. The best part? It curbs hunger by giving you the nutrients your body needs. With Complete Lean, you won’t be left counting down the minutes to lunchtime.

Unfortunately, cold weather has its way of wreaking havoc on our bodies. Aches and pains are amplified and seem to stick around longer than usual. Instead of moving to warmer weather or cutting back on workouts, the quick fix is ArniMax Gel. It’s important to us that our bodies are taken care of so we can stay on track with our goals!

Sometimes we all forget that our skin is our largest organ. It sounds strange to think of our skin being something we need to nourish, but this facial oil makes it easy. Applying the Uplifting Facial Oil at night is a nice destresser. Don’t worry about your skin type, because this product works for anyone.

If you didn’t receive one of these products in your Bulu Box this month and you want to check it out, click here.

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https://www.bulubox.com/blogs/bulu-box-blog/wash-the-funk-out-of-it2019-01-15T09:43:00-06:002019-01-15T12:17:26-06:00Wash The Funk Out of ItAccount CoordinatorWhat’s on your list of resolutions for this upcoming year? It’s easy to come up with drastic resolutions, but sometimes we forget how impactful the small ones can be. Whether your goal is to start exercising or to keep up your routine, we all could use a way to stay fresh and confident when exercising.

There is nothing worse than wondering if it’s you or the person next to you smelling ripe during a workout. Maybe it isn’t you, it’s your workout gear! Do you have stinky sportswear that seems to never be clean? This is caused by water resistant properties in athletic clothing. These properties keep you comfortable and dry during a workout. The downside? Trapping body oils and other crud in your beloved yoga pants. Fear not! Defunkify has a line of laundry products to release the grime from your workout gear.

How is Defunkify Different?

Traditional laundry detergent doesn’t clean on a microscopic level, it just masks the odor with a scent like “clean breeze.” And if we are being honest here, that “clean breeze” is gone five minutes into a workout. Defunkify uses plant-based enzymes to remove the odor-causing bacteria’s food source, which leaves your clothing fibers free of build-up and deep cleans all the way down to a microscopic level.

Environmentally Friendly

Defunkify is made by a group of scientists in Oregon that were tired of the funk in their athletic clothing. They wanted to make products that are environmentally friendly and increased performance. Defunkify is made with Green Chemistry which means each product is tested in depth for safety and to prevent eco-toxicity. As well as being environmentally friendly, Defunkify doesn’t test on mammals! That’s a win in our book.

Start the New Year Fresh

Making goals for the New Year is all about making improvements. Small improvements like changing how you clean your clothes can make a lasting effect on your time and confidence levels. Instead of feverishly washing your gear trying to get the smell out with your current detergent, swap it with Defunkify Active Wash Laundry Detergent to deep clean in one wash. You’ll never have to worry about putting together the Instagram-worthy workout outfit. Finally, spend more time focused on things you love doing. Imagine going to the gym and never worrying if you’re the stinky one! You can finally dig out your favorite workout clothes from the “too gross to wear” heap. Wash the funk out of you as you crush your New Year’s goals. Look out hot yoga class, here we come!

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https://www.bulubox.com/blogs/bulu-box-blog/10-easy-natural-asanas-that-will-cure-your-back-pain-quickly2019-01-09T08:29:00-06:002019-01-09T09:21:50-06:0010 Easy Natural Asanas That Will Cure Your Back Pain QuicklyAccount Coordinator
Yoga is great for treating every kind of body ache. Read the blog and know about ten easy and nature yoga asanas that help to cure back pain.

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Backaches are common issues we face in our day-to-day lives and also take it for granted. But at some point our back revolts and make us realize that they too need attention and care. With yoga, one can keep the back issues at bay, cure back pain, improve blood circulation to the spine and nerves and correct the posture.

To prevent back from a debilitating state, start practicing these ten yoga poses for relieving back pain.

Balasana

An amazing restorative pose to relax, Balasana stretches the entire back and hips, lengthens the spine and relieves lower back pain. You need to sit on your heels placing your hips over it and then raise the hands upward. Now bend forward holding them from the hip joint, keeping the forehead on the floor and hands placed in front of you. Hold the pose for a minute.

Marjariasana - Bitilasana

A simple yet effective yoga pose that relieves back pain, stretches, strengthens, massages the spine and makes it flexible. Start in a tabletop position being on your hands and knees. Now alter between rounding and arching the back and the pose is an ideal way of keeping the back in good condition.

Salabhasana

Lie on the stomach on the floor with the hands beside the body and palms facing upward. Now lift the head, torso, arms, and legs off the floor, and hold the pose for 30 seconds. Locust is a wonderful yoga exercise to strengthen and tone the back and hips. It improves posture, reduce stress and more.

Adho Mukha Svanasana

Downward Dog is one of the most embodied yoga postures which rejuvenates the entire body, decreases anxiety and stress and cures back pain easily. The pose makes you form an inverted V pose from the hips and stretches the whole body.

Utthita Trikonasana

This classical standing pose stretches the hips, spine, and groin as well as strengthens the back, alleviates sciatica, neck and back pain and relieves stress. Stand with the legs 4 feet apart, and then turn the right foot forward, and the left outwards at 15-degree angle. Lift the arms parallel to the floor, tilt forward and bend towards the right. Now put the right hand on the floor and extend the left arm upwards. Hold the pose for 30 seconds, release, and repeat on the other side.

Supta Matsyendrasana

Another amazing restorative pose that promotes mobility and movement in the back and spine, Supta Matysendrasana stretches the spine and back, relieves pain and stiffness. Lie on your back with the arms extended outwards at the side of the body and bend the knees. Now drop them on the right side and turn your face towards left, stay in the pose for a minute, release, and do the same on the other side.

Bhujangasana

The pose gives a gentle backbend, strengthens and stretches the spine, soothes sciatica and removes stiffness. Lie on your stomach with hands beside the body and feet together. Now bring the arms close to the shoulder, and lift your head, chest, and shoulders off the floor and hold the pose for a minute.

Janu Sirasana

Sit straight with legs extended outwards, and then fold the right leg and place the sole of the right foot on the inner side of the left thigh. Now bend forward folding from the hip joint and place your head over the shin and hold the left foot with your hands. Hold the pose for a minute, release, and repeat on the other side. The asana strengthens the back muscles, relieves pain and is good for pregnant women.

Rajakapotasana

Stretches the entire body, relieves back pain and strengthens it, alleviates sciatica, reduces stress and you begin the pose while being on your four. You need to perform the pose on both sides without straining the body. The pose gives amazing stretch to your back.

Setu Bandhasana

An inversion backbend pose, Setu Bandhasana is both stimulating and a restorative pose that stretches the spine relieves backaches and strengthens the back. The pose is easy to perform yet very effective for back related issues.

End the session with Savasana, and during your Yoga Teacher Training in Nepal acquire intensified knowledge and practice of these amazing poses.

Author Bio- Manmohan Singh has been a practitioner of yoga and Ayurveda for the last 12 years. He is managing director of Rishikul Ayurshala, an authentic Ayurveda training institute. The Institue offers ayurveda courses in Kerala India and ayurveda cooking classes in kerala India. The institute’s goal is to provide the simplest healing solutions and treatments for multifarious health problems. Apart from the institute management, Manmohan Singh loves to spend time writing, doing photography and traveling.]]>
https://www.bulubox.com/blogs/bulu-box-blog/what-to-look-for-in-weight-loss-supplements2018-12-26T09:57:00-06:002019-01-16T06:51:25-06:00What to Look for in Weight Loss SupplementsAccount Coordinator

It’s the season of slimming, healthier eating, andfinallygetting in shape. As people look to improve their lifestyles, the popularity of weight loss supplements has struck a debate among health critics throughout the industry.

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It’s the season of slimming, healthy eating, and finally getting in shape. As people look to improve their lifestyles, the popularity of weight loss supplements has struck a debate among health critics throughout the industry.

Do weight loss supplements work? According to science, the answer is a resounding yes.

Last February, the Mayo Clinic set out to end this debate. They took a batch of people looking to lose weight. Each person implemented a healthy diet and maintained frequent exercise. Half were given a weight loss supplement. The other half were given a placebo.

Over an eight-week period, the half given a weight loss supplement lost more than four times as much as the other group.

Weight loss supplements work. But not all ingredients are created equally. After investigating a decade worth of scientific studies, we have created a list of the crucial ingredients to look for when purchasing a weight loss supplement

Polyphenols

According to a 2010 study by the National Institute of Health, polyphenols reduce oxidative damage which aids in weight loss and prevents weight gain. Their antioxidant property quickens the rate the body recovers from exercise, allowing for more fat burn and less muscle degeneration.

Caffeine

One study showed caffeine can increases fat burning by 10% to 29%. Like a morning cup of coffee, caffeine works to provide energy to the body. It also works to help the metabolism break down fat cells quicker. The metabolic support and energy boost with caffeine makes it an essential ingredient in weight loss supplements.

Green Tea extract

People have been drinking green tea for centuries. Obtained from one of the healthiest beverages on the planet, this extract has gained attention throughout the health industry over the past decade. Green tea’s active compounds help break down fat cells in the bloodstream, which boost the effects of many fat-burning hormones.

Niacin

Niacin makes the body release HGH at a much faster rate. HGH gives our metabolism a significant boost, which allows our bodies to process fat quicker. HGH production decreases as we age, which is one reason people put on more weight as they get older. Whatever the age, niacin is a crucial ingredient to any weight loss supplement.

Cnidium Monnieri

The Chinese have used this herb for over 2,000 years to treat everything from low libido to skin conditions. The compounds of this herb work to increase energy and boost metabolism. Used by professional bodybuilders across the country, these compounds allow your body to workout more efficiently and break down fat quicker.

Codonopsis Pilosula Extract

This Asian herb has also been used in eastern medicine for thousands of years. Like Cnidium Monnieri, it works to boost energy and support metabolic functions. This extract goes one step further by strengthening and nourishing the blood flow, which is crucial for a healthy weight loss journey.

Black Pepper

Many people only think of black pepper as a dinner table essential, but some believe its effects support weight loss. Containing peperline, black pepper improves metabolic performance and reduces fat cell build-up in the body. The outer layer of black pepper consists of phytonutrients, which destroy fat cells in the body while further increasing the metabolism.

During our research, we found only a handful of weight loss supplements that contain these essential compounds. Our favorite was crafted by Shapeologist over five years ago, called Burn Blend. Learn more about their best-selling supplement here.

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https://www.bulubox.com/blogs/bulu-box-blog/8-secrets-to-staying-fit-and-healthy-during-the-holiday-season2018-12-17T10:44:00-06:002018-12-17T10:50:27-06:008 Secrets to Staying Fit and Healthy During the Holiday SeasonAccount CoordinatorThis blog post covers eight amazing secrets that can help you have a wholesome life and a healthy mind and body during the holidays.

This blog post covers eight amazing secrets that can help you have a wholesome life and a healthy mind and body during the holidays.

The holidays come with joy and moments of harmony with family and friends. People spend their time doing a number of holiday traditions or holiday trips such as luxury yoga vacations in India, Thailand, Bali, and other places. Regardless of the season, health is something that needs care and tending, even during the holidays.

Here are some of the way you can stay fit even during the Christmas season.

Continue with your normal healthy routine

The first suggestion that anyone could give you is not to disturb the everyday schedule that you have been following up to this point. Don’t let your mind become comfortable with the fact that it’s vacation time. Treat it like any other day and continue with your healthy eating and physical routine.

Do yoga daily

Yoga can be your answer to perfect health during a holiday. Along with being a physical exercise, yoga can be fun too, making it an interesting thing to do with your family members. Begin your days with yoga asanas such as Trikonasana, Uttanasana, Utkatasana, and many others. Involve grandma and grandpa to make it even more amazing!

Spend time with plants

Plants can be your best friends during vacation. Give some time to gardening tasks, which will not only help you utilize your free moments doing constructive work, but also brings you close to nature. If your local winter weather allows for outdoor gardening, the beauty of fresh air comes as an additional benefit. Otherwise, enjoy taking time tending to your indoor plant friends.

Keep your mind busy

Mental strength is very important when you are looking to build your fitness. An intelligent mind is produced when you do regular constructive work. It’s recommended that you keep your brain busy with some creativity. Do some artwork or help your child with his or her homework. You can even challenge your mind with games, like chess.

Stay hydrated

If you can’t exercise regularly or follow a mind-challenging schedule, drink as much water as you can. Begin your day with 2 cups of water and make sure you are always hydrated during your day. Water is extremely beneficial for one’s physical health as it helps in blood circulation, food digestion, immunity building, and other health benefits.

Go on a vacation with family

Staying fit is highly dependent on mental relaxation. Happiness is a great way to keep yourself fit. Go on a vacation with your near and dear ones to spend some quality time with them. This will create a sense of harmony in your body and among your family. You can attend a yoga retreat, Ayurveda holiday in Bali, Varkala, Thailand, or anywhere you want.

Run

Running is probably your best friend if you want to improve your physical health. While running, you can have a glimpse of the surroundings you live in. Don’t make running a burden; enjoy this special time. Talk to people in the park or make it interesting with good music.

Stop worrying and celebrate

Enjoy your moments with family and friends without worrying too much about your health and routine. It’s a holiday! Make your own moments. Letting it be dominated by too much pressure to be healthy will ruin your enjoyment. Don’t forget to indulge in celebrations. Even if you can’t follow the correct routine for a day, there is nothing to worry about, because connecting with family is the biggest win for the health.

Author bio

Manmohan Singh is a passionate Yogi, Yoga Teacher and a traveler in India. He is currently working with rishikulyogshsla.org. The Yoga Alliance affiliated school organizes a number of Yoga events such as Yoga teacher training India, Yoga workshops, retreats, Pranayama training, etc.]]>
https://www.bulubox.com/blogs/bulu-box-blog/how-to-achieve-the-ultimate-energy-balance2018-07-20T17:49:00-05:002018-07-24T16:18:05-05:00How to Achieve the Ultimate Energy BalanceBulu Collaborator

Yin & Yang Energy - It’s All About Balance

Does the thought of throwing back a 5-Hour Energy or downing 4 cups of coffee make you cringe a little inside? It seems like every energy drink or caffeinated solution has a trade-off. Think of the most common energy boosters: coffee, tea, energy drinks like Red Bull and Monster and energy shots like 5-hour Energy and Yerba Mate Energy Shots. They all have one or more of the following issues:

Low Potency (ineffective energy boost)

Lack of natural ingredients

Bladder Irritation

Side effects (heart palpitations, jitters and the infamous crash) caused by ingredients like taurine and phenylalanine

Why Compromise?

The Founder ofYin & Yang Energy(Y&Y) is a mid-thirties lawyer moonlighting as a writer and was fed up with the lack of healthy and natural energy boosters that actually worked. Turns out, this is a dilemma many women face as well. Many steer clear of caffeinated products due to health concerns, and who can blame them? Effective solutions have ingredients you can’t pronounce like taurine and phenylalanine that cause jitters or a crash, and all the more natural solutions simply don’t give enough of a boost to keep you going all day.

The Ultimate Balance

Y&Ybrings you the ultimate balance by resolving material deficiencies of products like coffee, tea, Red Bull, 5-hour Energy and Yerba Mate Energy Shots. Now you get the power of a 5-hour Energy and the health benefits of Yerba Mate Energy Shots all wrapped into one.

Y&Yis made in the USA and is a potent, yet healthy source of energy for anyone looking to achieve the balance of chasing your passions (without having to quit your day job). Settling is no longer a requirement!

The Best of Both Worlds

5-hour Energy

Potent: Caffeine (215-230 mg per 2 oz bottle) and B-Vitamins pack a punch but at the cost of having side effects and falling short on natural ingredients

Contains taurine and phenylalanine (which may cause those jitters and crash) plus artificial flavors and sweeteners

Yerba Mate Energy Shots

Lacks potency (70 mg of caffeine per 2 oz bottle) and is high in carbohydrates and sugar content (6-8 grams of sugar and carbs per 2 oz bottle)

The best benefit? These little powerhouses come in two unique flavors, Acai Berry and Lemon Lime. Want to try it for yourself? Head to theirwebsite to get your hands on the healthy alternative for lasting energy!

Probiotics are the immune-boosting bacteria in your gut flora that help promote proper digestion, immunity, disease prevention and more. In a world surrounded by new and helpful probiotics let’s not forget about their sibling, prebiotics! Learn all about prebiotics and their impact on your overall health with this informative article sponsored by Rowdy Bar.

Your gut is a crazy place. Did you know you have almost 100 trillion bacteria living in your stomach right now!? Crazy, right. Well, all of these good bacteria play an important role in almost every aspect of your health. While you’re probably familiar with PRObiotics, the showboaters of the gut bacteria world, PREbiotics are the unsung hero.

What are Prebiotics?Prebiotics act like food for their probiotics brethren. They are a type of non-digestible fiber that passes through the GI tract and remain undigested. Now, prebiotics aren’t just any fiber. They have a unique ability to withstand heat, cold and stomach acid. Once they make their way through the GI tract these prebiotics are then fermented by the other bacteria in your stomach, becoming food and fuel for probiotic bacteria in your gut.

Where do you get prebiotics?There are a number of sources for prebiotics including raw dandelion greens, raw leeks, raw garlic and unripe bananas. We understand if those foods don’t sound so appetizing. That’s why we’re stoked about Rowdy Bars. These sustainable energy bars are not only delicious but are also packed with prebiotics! Plus, Rowdy Bars are made with just 8 food ingredients (that you can actually pronounce!).

Yacon Root Rowdy Bars get their super prebiotic powers from Yacon Root! Yacon Root is a special source of prebiotics. Yacon root is actually a species of perennial daisy and is used as a gut-healthy alternative to sweeteners. Other sweeteners such as aspartame, saccharin and sucralose are artificial and can have a negative impact on your gut health. Yacon syrup, derived from Yacon root actually IMPROVES your digestive health with its prebiotic properties that work with your gut bacteria. The sugars within the Yacon plant cannot be digested by your body, which is a good thing! This is why Rowdy Bars are low-glycemic but still taste amazing! No sugar crash!

Want to try your own Rowdy Bar? Get yours at rowdyprebiotics.com! Be sure to check out Rowdy Bars newest flavor, Peanutty Dark Chocolate!

Daily stressors can cause an increase in blood pressure and can distract you from your usual rate of productivity.

Enter stage right, L-Theanine. Most probably don't know what L-Theanine is, so let's go into a little more detail about one of the most studied sources of stress and anxiety relief featuring our friends at Stress Killer.

What is L-Theanine?

L-Theanine is a water-soluble amino acid used to treat anxiety, stress and minimal cognitive impairment. What makes L-Theanine unique is its ability to absorb and activate within the body in 30 minutes. Studies have shown that L-Theanine is responsible for reduced blood pressure and, in turn, increased ability to focus on difficult tasks without getting distracted.

Shown to increase levels of dopamine and GABA in the brain, L-Theanine is beneficial to those suffering from stress and anxiety. Even better, L-Theanine can provide the focus and energy you need without the stress caffeine can have on the body.

Where do you find L-Theanine?

L-Theanine is most commonly found in tea, specifically green and black tea. Though not as concentrated, L-Theanine can be found in mushrooms. L-Theanine can be found in capsule form, in which case the effects would be stronger from a higher concentration of the amino acid.

What do we recommend?

All of us here at Bulu Box is sold on L-Theanine's beneficial effects on stress and distraction caused by anxiety. In order to get the best results from L-Theanine, we recommend using Stress Killer. Stress Killer is a sugar-free, non-drowsy drink mix that is a great source of L-Theanine and is specially formulated to relieve stress and increase focus. All-natural and at just 5 calories per pack, we love using Stress Killer to simultaneously relax and boost our ability to focus. Stress Killer mixes L-Theanine with vitamins and electrolytes to provide maximum energy in one delicious drink.

Stress Killer is easy to use and comes in an all-natural, delicious Soothing Berry flavor, giving you all of the powerful effects in one flavorful drink!

Did you go the extra mile yesterday and end up with that deep soreness that makes it tough to do stairs or sit down? We feel you. Here are a few tips, exercises, and products we use to help relieve those sore muscles featuring Battle Balm.

First, it's important to know where muscle soreness comes from. When you exercise you're pushing your muscles past what they're normally required or used to doing. That's why you have that feeling of working muscles that haven't been worked in a long time (or our favorite, muscles you never even knew you had). This soreness is commonly attributed to a build-up of lactic acid but that's actually not true. Muscle soreness is believed to be attributed to microscopic damage to the muscle fibers caused during exercise.

Whoa whoa... damaging my muscles? Microscopic damage? That sounds bad... Have no fear! This damage is normal and the healing process of this microscopic damage is how your muscles adapt and build so you become stronger!

Now we know why we get sore and that being sore means we're getting stronger but it still hurts. Here are a few ways we love to help ease stiff and sore muscles.

Foam RollingMyofascial Release is the hands-on technique of gently applying pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue to help eliminate pain and loosen up muscles. Colloquially known as 'Foam Rolling' this technique utilizes a number of different tools to apply this pressure to the Fascia (soft connective tissue) to elongate and stretch the tissue and muscles beneath. The pressure you feel using the foam roller actually triggers a stretching reflex within the muscle to decrease muscle tension. There are some great YouTube tutorials on how to start foam rolling.

Battle BalmThis badass mix of 20 hand-selected plant ingredients help naturally relieve pain and discomfort in your aching muscles. Battle Balm’s unique formula integrates both warming and cooling properties to quickly improve circulation and relax your muscles. This recovery concept is crucial to relieving spasm, facilitating muscle repair, andoptimizing performance. Battle Balm has a leg up on other topical analgesics because it not only booststhe body’s healing process, but it also infuses your skin with vitamin E, lipids, and fatty acids. In addition to its incredible pain fighting power, Battle Balm has unmatched versatility and can also be used in clearing chest congestion and soothing bug bites. Battle Balm is completely natural and contains no artificial colors, fragrances, petroleum, or parabens. With 3 strengths to choose from, there’s one that’s right for you!

YogaOne of the keys to relieving soreness is prevention. Often times we feel sore because we've put a lot of strain on our body that it's not used to. Yoga is a great low impact way to lengthen and strengthen your muscle fibers and increase flexibility. Increasing your flexibility allows your muscle fibers to take on more strain and more workload. Yoga is a great practice for both body and mind and is a great way to prevent injury and unneeded soreness.

What's your favorite recovery method?

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https://www.bulubox.com/blogs/bulu-box-blog/products-for-managing-stress2017-12-27T11:31:00-06:002018-01-08T14:40:59-06:00Products For Managing StressBulu Box
You can work out, eat healthy, and do your best to get a full night of sleep but if you find yourself in a constant state of stress it could be the thing keeping you from a truly healthy lifestyle.

Stress has a real effect on our body. According to the Mayo Clinic a few common effects of stress on your body include:

Headache

Muscle tension

Chest pain

Fatigue

Change in sex drive

Stomach upset

Sleep problems

All of these can lead to overeating, angry outbursts, and even depression. Stress, and more specifically, cortisol the stress hormone, can have real negative effects on your body! To help minimize stress it's important to always manage your daily workload. A daily practice of meditation can be a huge help as well.

If you're like us, finding time to meditate and de-stress can be difficult. That's when we like to turn to a few of our favorite stress reducing supplements. All of these ingredients can also be found in Zen Balance, a stress and anxiety relief formula in both drink mix and capsule form. Zen Balance's formulas support relaxation, calms nerves, and helps improve your mood!

L-Theanine:This amino acid is traditionally found in teas from the Camellia sinensis family. L-Theanine is known to promote relaxation without causing drowsiness! Which makes it a perfect helper for a stressful day where you still need to crush those to-dos. L-Theanine is also known to help improve attention.

B Vitamins:The healthy properties of B Vitamins (especially on energy levels) are well known but did you know that B6 helps your body produce neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, that can help your body deal with stress, anxiety and may even help boost your immune system!

Ashwagandha:A funny name but powerful effects. This popular herbal supplement can help keep anxiety at bay by helping to reduce cortisol (stress hormone) concentrations! Plus, it can help prevent the immunosuppressive effects of stress to keep you healthy even during high-stress times!

Have you ever heard of the Keto Diet? You may have heard it referred to as the "low-carb, high-fat diet, or ketogenic diet. Still not ringing a bell? Don't worry, we've got you covered.

﻿What is the Keto Diet?

﻿Considered a low-carb diet, the Keto Diet focuses on getting the body to a state of Ketosis. Ketosis, the state your body goes to on a low intake of food, causes the body to produce ketones which break down and burn fat in the body.

What Makes it Work?

When eating carbs, the body uses the natural glucose found in carbs as its main source of energy. The reason why the Keto Diet is so successful is that its lowered intake of carbs causes the body to resort to its Ketogenic state.

The Keto Diet isn't a diet of starvation (gross), but just the starvation of carbs that forces your body into its metabolic state in order to burn fat faster.

What are the Do's and Dont's?

We already figured out that eating carbs on this diet is a no-go. But what exactly are we supposed to follow and what are we supposed to follow that is Keto-approved?

DO

﻿Meats (fish, poultry, lamb, beef, etc.)

Leafy Greens

Above-Ground Vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, etc.)

High Fat Dairy (hard cheeses, high fat cream, etc.)

Nuts & Seeds

Avocados & Berries

Sweeteners (stevia, monk fruit, etc.)

Other fats like coconut oil, high-fat salad dressing, etc.)

Keto friendly snacks like Ketowatt

DON'T

Grains (wheat, corn, rice, cereal, etc.)

Sugar (agave, honey, corn syrup, etc.)

Fruit

Tubers (potatoes, yams, etc.)

Sounds simple enough, right? Well, we know diets can be hard and that at times we need all the help we can get. We recommend trying out KetoWatt snack bars! Made with natural ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa powder, almonds, chia seed, flax seeds and Himalayan pink salt, they are as delicious as they are nutritious. Low in carbs and high in healthy fats, KetoWatt snack bars keep your body in ketosis where you can burn fat.

Backed by science, Omega-3 Fatty Acids like EPA and DHA play a vital role in the development of infants and maternal health. Although these long-chain fatty acids are crucial in growth and development, the human body does not naturally synthesize Omega-3 fatty acids and can only be obtained through diet and supplementation.

What, exactly, are the benefits?

﻿According to researchers, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are the most beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids. They occur together naturally, but both have benefits that are unique from each other.

Omega-3 fatty acids do not synthesize naturally in the human body, so the only way to get these vital nutrients is through diet and/or supplementation.

What are the Omega-3 EPA and DHA Sources?

The best sources for EPA and DHA are fatty fish like Salmon, Mackerel, Herring and Anchovies. However, most western diets fall short on seafood consumption and that’s when high quality concentrated Omega-3 Fish oil supplements help fill the nutrition gaps.

Who Needs DHA?

DHA is the most abundant structural fat present in your brain and retina. When a woman is pregnant she transfers her own DHA through the placenta to her developing fetus and later through her breast milk during lactation. Since this fatty acid is not produced naturally, a deficiency occurs most commonly during pregnancy(s) and lactation. Such a deficiency makes it all the more important to replenish DHA for both mothers and their unborn children.

Development doesn't stop after being born! Omega-3 DHA is just as important for growing children and teenagers to continue healthy growth and brain development.

What Do We Recommend?

At Bulu Box we love Nurture Me Maternal Health Omega-3 DHA Supplements for Women 18+ and Nurture Kids Omega-3 DHA for Supplement for Kids 8 years plus. Each tiny softgel is ‘smaller-than-a-dime’ and packed with 300 mg of highly concentrated pure DHA. Each softgel ais individually wrapped in blister foil to retain freshness and reduce oxidation. Nurture Me Supplements for Women provide a healthy dose of Omega-3 DHA fatty acids during pregnancy and lactation. Nurture Kids is a perfect supplement for children who dislike eating fish and it aids with healthy brain, vision and focus support in children 8 years and older. Recognized as the top Children's and Women's health supplements, we think it's a great way to get the Omega-3 DHA you need!

Both Nurture Kids and Nurture Me is available for purchase here and here.

Have you tried Nurture Me and Nurture Kids? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

It’s no secret that glowing, gorgeous skin doesn’t just come from expensive creams — it all starts from within.

Consuming the right nutrients every day can unlock the key to achieving great skin with just a little bit of effort.

Our team at Bulu Box puts stress on the words every day because the collagen in our skin is depleted as we age and if we help boost collagen production by ingesting collagen peptides daily — we are reversing the damage and maintaining youthful, hydrated skin for the long haul.

What’s In It For You?

There’s a lot of buzz about collagen peptides and it’s no wonder because its benefits are certainly more than skin deep — not only do collagen peptides help skin and nails become strong and healthy, they improve joints and aid digestion.

As a fibrous protein that keeps the dermis plump and healthy, collagen is a major structural component in our skin — that's why we need to protect it from environmental stresses, like UV damage, pollution, hormones, free radicals, which all contribute to aging.

Through proper daily skin nutrition, rest and exercise, we can slow down the aging process by stimulating our own body's natural collagen production.

How can we do this? By taking Sparkle Skin Boost, a powder supplement packed with 2,500mg of VERISOL collagen peptides and vitamin C, every day.

To keep skin even more nourished and hydrated, Sparkle Skin Boost Plus has hyaluronic acid and an even higher dose of vitamin C, on top of the 5,000mg of VERISOL collagen peptides (twice the amount of collagen peptides compared to Sparkle Skin Boost).

How do you make collagen a habit?

Sparkle Skin Boost comes in three luscious flavors — Orange, Mixed Berry, and Apple Ginger. Sparkle Skin Boost also has a No Flavor version for those who don’t want the taste of their chosen beverage to change or who prefer not to consume stevia (our preferred natural sweetener for our flavored products).

You can pop a scoop of Sparkle Skin Boost into water, or tea, a smoothie or even yogurt, cereal and salad dressings. We say, change it up to keep it interesting — switch flavors, put it in different beverages and food.

Have a super busy schedule or traveling? We’ve got you covered with our convenient Sparkle Skin Boost Capsules that are easy to tote around.

If you’re not sure which is your flavor, our Skin Boost Starter Kit is the perfect intro to our range. Try a single serve of each of the four Sparkle flavors and then pick the one you love for a full-sized tub.

How do you choose the right collagen supplement?

Sippable beauty beverages are all the rage now, but how do you spot the ones that truly work? We say, give the ingredients list a closer look.

Choose collagen peptide formulas that are clinically backed. The primary active ingredient in Sparkle, called VERISOL Collagen Peptides, has been the focus of a number of clinical studies.

The studies found that VERISOL had the following benefits.

1. Reduces Fine Lines & Wrinkles

In a trial involving 114 women between age 45 and 65 who consumed 2,500mg of VERISOL daily had a significant reduction in wrinkles after 4 weeks as a result of the collagen in their skin having increased by up to 60%

A study over 6 months showed an average increase in rate of nail growth of 10%, a 42% reduction in chipped or cracked nails, and a decrease in brittle nail syndrome in 88% of participants, of whom 80% were completely satisfied with their VERISOL treatment

One-Way ANOVA, Fischer post-test, publication pending

When choosing a collagen peptide supplement, make sure of the dosage of collagen peptides in the supplement — there should be at least 2,500mg for it to be effective. Anything less and you’ll likely not see any positive results.

Also - check that the ingredients other than the collagen peptides are all-natural. Sparkle Skin Boost only uses natural flavoring and coloring and we chose stevia not only for its tastiness but also because it is naturally derived. Sparkle products are also free from GMOs, sugar, gluten, dairy and soy.

According to researchers at the University of Manchester in England, your toothbrush is home to more than 100 million bacteria including E. coli and staphylococci (Staph) bacteria.

Gross, right?

Well, not all bacteria is bad. Your mouth is actually full of bacteria, most of it is even good for you. However, keeping your toothbrush clean is important to avoid sickness. New methods are being developed to help keep your toothbrush clean, while it keeps your mouth clean.

COAL

No, we aren't talking about the coal you use at your backyard barbecue. Activated charcoal, on the other hand, is extremely porous and is able to absorb toxins and impurities before they are absorbed by the body. These properties have been attributed to whiter teeth, however, many continue to debate its legitimacy.

SILVER/GOLD

Both silver and gold have antibacterial properties that have been shown to reduce bacteria count on toothbrushes and oral care routines.While some of the bacteria in our mouth are beneficial, bacteria-infested toothbrushes harbor mostly pathogenic bacteria that can cause a multitude of long-term health issues. Silver and gold are a non-abrasive, natural way to keep your toothbrush clean. Lab tests have proven gold and silver to reduce up to 99% of the bacteria on the Nano-b toothbrush

BAMBOO CHARCOAL

Bamboo charcoal is a natural element used in oral care for its cleaning and whitening properties. Bamboo charcoal is a naturally effective way to absorb toxins while giving your teeth a fresh shine.

WHAT DO WE RECOMMEND?

We LOVE Nano-B Antibacterial toothbrushes! With both Charcoal/Gold and Silver options, Nano-B toothbrushes have fewer bacteria on the brush than regular toothbrushes. The charcoal contains natural whitening properties and because the bristles are themselves infused with gold, charcoal and silver, the bristles are gentle on gums and last long without fraying. Compatible with any toothpaste, Nano-B's antibacterial toothbrushes took our pearly whites to the next level!

For best results, we recommend using the Nano-B certified organic mint toothpaste. In addition to toothbrushes, their toothpaste contains 100% natural and 97% organic ingredients, while being free of all nasty chemicals. It's vegan-friendly, cruelty-free and blended cold, so all of the healthy properties of its ingredients are protected.

Bulu Box has an exclusive offer for our subscribers! Use the code is BULU30 and get 30% off on all our products

Fall is here, and with it comes delicious treats that taste best with great-tasting sweetness from Truvia®.

Truvía® Natural Sweetener is a great way to perfect your favorite fall recipes with natural sweetness from the stevia leaf. One packet of Truía® Natural Sweetener has the same sweetness as two teaspoons of sugar.

Roll out half of the pastry on a floured surface to 1 inch larger than inverted 9-inch pie pan. Ease pastry into

Blend Truvía® Natural Sweetener, cornstarch, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg in small bowl. Sprinkle on apples and toss until coated. Add lemon zest and mix thoroughly. Arrange apple mix into crust. Cut butter into slices, place on top of

Roll remaining pastry into circle large enough to cover inverted 9-inch pie Place over apples, seal edges, trim and flute. Cut slits in top to allow steam to escape.

Bake at 400°F for 40 to 50 minutes or until crust is golden and apples are tender. Cool on wire

*This apple pie has 250 calories per serving as compared to a full-sugar version apple pie that has 310 calories per serving.

In a medium saucepan, combine peppercorns, ginger root, orange peel, fennel seed, cardamom, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon Using a mallet or the back of a ladle, lightly crush or bruise spices to release flavors.

Add water to the pan, bring to a boil and simmer with lid on for 20 minutes

Add the tea and steep for 10

Strain mixture, discarding spices and tea (You should have approximately 1 cup of spiced tea base).

Combine Truvía® Natural Sweetener and milk, warm to desired

Add tea spice base to warm milk

Left over tea can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or reheated, stir before

*Each serving of tea has 60 calories and 7 grams of sugar per serving compared to the full-sugar version which has 110 calories and 19 grams of sugar per serving.

How to Eat Healthy While Traveling from guest blogger Matt Boyd from The Transit Co.

I’m an avid traveler, one of my biggest struggles comes in the form of healthy eating. I’m consistently questioning why it’s so difficult eating healthy on the road. In this post, I’d love to explore a few options that perhaps haven’t crossed your mind when it comes to maintaining a consistently healthy diet while traveling. This article is tailored toward the minimalist traveler. Any advice given, when enacted will not add weight or advocate for anything that takes up space in your luggage.

It’s also important to avoid specific dietary needs simply because everyone is different and I’m not a nutritionist. The hardest part of eating healthy while traveling is the constant lack of space and availability of even decent options that won’t send me over the edge on my diet plan. Typically, if I eat whatever is available, by the end of the trip, I feel like garbage.

Here are a few options that will help you eat a little more healthy while traveling.

1. Eat as much as you can before you arrive at the airport.

If you recognize the standard cycles of travel and plan ahead, you’ll be much more aware and able to eat at the most opportune moments when healthy food is available. For example, knowing that you have a 10 am flight to catch, you have plenty of time to eat a healthy breakfast by simply waking up an hour earlier.

The best way to avoid terrible road food is by filling up before your arrival to the airport, whenever that may be. Once breakfast is taken care of, it’s much easier to maintain your hunger levels by purchasing small snacks like nuts or a banana.

If you’re not traveling by plane, it’s even easier simply because the infrastructure for purchasing healthy snacks is a lot less expensive and more readily available. Stopping along the way at a grocery store is cheap and easy.

2. Avoid fast food like the plague.

It’s a known fact, fast food isn’t the most healthy option. And while you’re traveling, the temptation is huge.

Don’t do it.

I realize how tempting that 2-pound burrito is. But I promise, with a 4-hour flight ahead of you, it’s really not worth it.

3. If you’re staying in an Airbnb, use the kitchen as much as possible.

I travel a lot and one method I use to keep my calories in check and control the ingredients in my food is by actually using the kitchen in my rented Airbnb. It really helps if your rented bed and breakfast comes with kitchen utensils, which most do.

One added benefit of cooking in is browsing your nearby grocery store. Some of my best travel moments have been walking through grocery stores in Croatia, Paris, and Oslo. Shopping as the locals shop will help you see the location through their eyes.

Another important point when it comes to cooking on your travels is to book your Airbnb location in close proximity to a grocery store. You may be asking yourself, “what if I’m staying in a hotel?”. That’s fine too. Even if you don’t have access to a luxury kitchen, stock up on healthy snacks and items that will aid in your struggle of avoiding fast food. Search the neighborhood ahead of time. Make sure you’re near a Whole Foods or that country’s equivalent.

I promise, if you’re thoughtful about where you stay and prioritize grocery store trips, you will not regret it in the long run.

4. Eat foods that don’t require much effort in cooking.

When I’m on the go and just need fast nutrition, I like items where tons of prep time isn’t necessary.

Good examples of these foods are:

a.Guacamole -simply dice up some tomatoes, onions, and avocados, add a little lime juice and you’re golden. Now you have a healthy dip that’s complimentary to almost anything.

b.Hard-boiled eggs - Eggs are cheap and easy to boil. The perfect option for breakfast in a hurry.

c.Toast - Really, not much is easier than toast.

The best thing about the items mentioned above is, if added together and with very little time invested, you have Avocado toast which is personally my favorite road breakfast ever.

5. Don’t snack on gas station food.

When it comes to king size peanut butter cups, or gas station hot dogs, the path is easy and slippery.

If you’re really looking to gather excess fat calories, snacking on gas station food is your best option. Except for water and a few select nuts and bananas, along with fast food, I’d recommend avoiding most items found in a gas station. Instead of super sugary caffeine drinks, I’d recommend black coffee or tea.

6. Lara Bars are life.

One of my favorite weapons in avoiding unhealthy travel food are Lara Bars. If you haven’t eaten a Lara Bar, I’d recommend giving them a try. Most Lara Bars only have two or three ingredients which makes them even that much more appealing. If you’re looking for a healthy option, Lara Bars are filling and perfect for on the go travelers.

Conclusion

On the road, my biggest problem is the constant temptation to dive down the rabbit hole of terrible food. It’s everywhere so plan ahead, keep your wits about you and avoid it at all costs. Especially when options are limited. It’s easy to avoid the common pitfalls of bad road food if you simply know where to look.

About the Author:

Matt is obsessed with traveling and loves to share his experiences with the world. Join him on his journey at http://www.thetransit.co.

Probiotics are a combination of healthy yeasts and live bacteria that are vital to your health, specifically your digestive system.

Get the most out of your probiotics!

Choosing the best type of probiotic can be tricky, simply because there are so many options at your fingertips. With the number of different probiotics in the market, it can be difficult to determine which formula is best suited for you. According to Dr. Williams, the first step to improving digestive health is to include more probiotic foods into your diet like yogurt, kefir or sauerkraut. However, sauerkraut may not be for everyone. In this case, a natural, probiotic supplement is your best option.

The specific probiotic strains included – choose a formula with a blend of strains for more effective results

The product’s packaging and delivery system

No-Sugar formula – as sugar helps feed the bad bacteria

Product expiration dates

Money-back guarantee

Although many companies will say that the best probiotics are the ones with the highest levels of bacteria in them, researchers have found that it is not the number of bacteria, but the varying number of strains present and how effectively it reaches your digestive tract to do its work. Because each strain has a specific function, having more superior bacterial strains in a probiotic supplement can be of more help than a large quantity of the same strain.

What are some important bacteria strains?

For those of us who haven’t studied the ins and outs of probiotics, knowing these specific strains by name is difficult! Here are some important strains to know when shopping for probiotics:

rhamnosus GG– This is the #1 most clinically studied bacterial strain with over 200 clinical trials and the subject of 800 publications to date.

acidophilus—This is the most important strain of the Lactobacillus species and, it readily colonizes on the walls of the small intestine. It supports nutrient absorption and helps with the digestion of dairy foods.

longum—Like L. acidophilus, B. Longum is one of the most common bacteria found in the digestive tracts of adults, and it helps maintain the integrity of the gut wall. It is particularly active as a scavenger of toxins.

bifidum—This strain, found in both the small and large intestine, is critical for the healthy digestion of dairy products. This is especially important as you grow older and your natural ability to digest dairy declines. B. bifidum also is important for its ability to break down complex carbohydrates, fat, and protein into small components that the body can use more efficiently.

infantis – This is the super strain for babies. It has been shown to help build the intestinal walls in a baby’s digestive tract and aids in brain development.

What do we choose?

As for us, we recommend using LoveBug Probiotics. With 60% of beneficial bacteria surviving past the stomach acid barrier, LoveBug’s patented delivery system is formulated so you get the most out of your probiotics. Centered on research, LoveBug offers a proprietary blend in each formula to aid in multiple areas at the highest rate of effectiveness. Probiotics designed by LoveBug renowned scientists target specific needs for adults, children and babies with Probiotic plans to address specific health concerns like boosting immunity, digestive and gut health. What’s more? LoveBug’s natural formulas are Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Lactose Free & Sugar Free. Shop LoveBug Probiotics here.

Have you tried LoveBug Probiotics? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

Most of you know the four basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty and bitter. But what about umami? Discovered in Japan in 1908, umami is the fifth taste and is used to describe foods having an inherent savoriness.

Umami, which means “delicious” in Japanese, actually comes from an amino acid called glutamate. Foods containing high quantities of amino acid glutamate, like parmesan cheese, mushrooms and seaweed are considered “umami” foods. Glutamate-rich ingredients are frequently paired with foods containing the other umami-related amino acids inosinate (meat and fish) and guanylate (dry mushrooms). These pairings are known to optimize the umami flavor.

Historically, certain methods such as salting, drying and preserving meats served to concentrate umami, however, many people mistake the presence of salt to be the umami flavor. The food itself is what contains the umami, and the way we prepare it is what either draws out that flavor.

A popular example of umami comes from Ancient Greece and the Roman Empire where along with wine and olive oil, a fish sauce called garum was one of the most common and desired food products. Garum was stored in clay jars along with fish bones to enhance its umami flavor. These bones and clay remains have since been discovered by archeologists and anthropologists still exhibiting traces of umami.

Umami flavors since then have been cultivated through fermented beans, tomato products, meat products and much more around the world. Processes continue to be used today that emphasize this rich flavor.

One product takes this flavor and applies it to snacks we can enjoy on the go! We love Yumami Popped Nori Chips, a healthy and delicious way to snack while getting that satisfying umami flavor. Each bag of popped rice chips contains gluten-free grains and superfoods artfully combined with umami-rich nori seaweed and sea salt to satiate midday or late-night cravings! They’re low sodium without sacrificing flavor, and won’t leave your fingers greasy.

Cryotherapy: you may have seen celebrities all over social media being treated by this unique form of therapy. But what do we actually know about cryotherapy? At first glance, one might shy away from probes and freezing temperatures, but we dug a bit deeper to get you the facts on what cryotherapy really is and its benefits.

What is cryotherapy?

According to MedicineNet, cryotherapy is “a pain treatment that uses a method of localized freezing temperatures to deaden an irritated nerve. Cryotherapy is also used as a method of treating localized areas of some cancers (called cryosurgery), such as prostate cancer and to treat abnormal skin cells by dermatologists.”

Many also claim that this method of standing in this freezer tank improves sleep, athletic performance, aid in weight loss and even slow the aging process.

How, exactly, does it work?

Buzzfeed sent a few of their employees to try cryotherapy, check it out!

Does cryotherapy actually work?

Being that cryotherapy could be anything from the frozen chambers you saw in the video, or putting an ice pack on your body, the use of ice in treating swelling, inflammation, and pain is common knowledge. The difference between an ice pack and cryotherapy is that the entire body is exposed to temperatures as low as -200 degrees F, essentially taking a bath in liquid Nitrogen. Although cryotherapy has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation from arthritis and other joint-related pain centers, the claims of anti-aging, weight loss, and increased athletic performance have yet to be proven.

Synopsis: It’s up to you!

Effects from cryotherapy are not negative, however, we would not rely on it for all of our weight loss needs, as no scientific evidence backs this statement. However, if you suffer from joint pain or just want to try it for fun, we definitely recommend giving cryotherapy a try!

Have you tried cryotherapy? Tell us how it went in the comments below!

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https://www.bulubox.com/blogs/bulu-box-blog/9-exercises-you-can-do-at-home2017-08-17T14:48:00-05:002017-12-07T15:24:24-06:009 Exercises You Can Do at HomeAmber Wiebe
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After a long, busy day, though, it can be difficult to find the motivation to head to the gym.

The good news, though, is that you don’t have to drop your fitness routine just because getting to and from the gym is a hassle. There are plenty of exercises that you can do from home that will help you to stay fit. No matter what your fitness goals are, you don’t need to spend every day in the gym in order to see results; there are tons of great exercises that you can do at home using nothing more than your own body weight.

Would you like to skip the gym, stay home, and sip iced coffee? Well, at least you’ll be able to do two out of three! Here’s a look at nine simple exercises that you can do from the comfort of your home, no rowing machines required!

Superman

A simple exercise,Superman is great for stretching your core. Start by lying face-down on the floor with your arms outstretched in front of you. Lift your arms and legs off the ground at the same time, almost as if your fingers and toes are being pulled to stretch you out. Super!

Pushups

The humble push-up can be a tremendously beneficial exercise. Pushups are great for working out your upper body as well as your core. When doing pushups, make sure that you maintain a proper plank-like position the entire time. Keep in mind, too, that activating your core and holding the position will give you the most from this exercise. Find pushups too boring?Try switching things up with one of these ten variations.

Side Plank / Front Plank

It might have been a viral prank not too long ago, but the health benefits of planking are no joke! While this move is best known for working your core, planks can also target more than 20 muscles; including your shoulders, back, arms, and legs. A truly versatile move! Check out47 variations of the plank if you’re looking to mix things up a bit.

Lunges

When done properly, lunges can be great for working out the lower body. They can help to correct imbalances and strengthen your body evenly. There is a wide variety of different lunges that you can do includingbodyweight lunges,side lunges, andwalking lunges, just to name a few. You can even amp it up if you prefer to by adding in a bicep curl with hand weights. Show off!

Mountain Climbers

Another great total-body exercise, mountain climbers can also be done from home. This fast-paced exercise can also be adjusted based on your tolerance and energy levels. If you’re looking for a more advanced workout, then go faster! A great move if you want to brag to friends about your mountain climb! Learn how to do mountain climbers.

Jump Squat

Because regular squats are just too easy! Instead of simply squatting and standing, squat and jump! Ready to get the party started? If you are really looking to amp things up you can perform the 180 jump squat with a twist; great for agility. Just take care that you do it properly to avoid injuries.Here’s how!

V-Up

V-ups are great for the core and are a good go-to move for perfecting your abs. To do a v-up, start by doing a sit up, then raise your legs and touch your toes, creating a “v” shape when you finish.

Reverse Crunch

Thereverse crunch is good for building up your lower abs. Start by lying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Keep your arms out and your palms down on the floor to support yourself. Engage your core muscles and lift your feet off the floor, raising your hips. Hold your position briefly.

Burpee

Burpees help build muscle and strengthen your heart. They get your heart rate up and body moving. Burpees are fairly easy and can be modified by adjusting your speed. Just make sure you maintainproper form while performing this move.

These exercises are perfect for those days when you’re just not feeling the gym, or for when you’re traveling. For more variety, you could addsome resistance bands to your workout and easily target your biceps, triceps, chest, upper/lower back, abs/core, and legs.

With summer officially in full swing, most of our thoughts are on vacation and fun days out. Just because you may be craving some time off, though, doesn’t mean that your fitness routine has to suffer! Sometimes, splurging on a few new accessories is all we need to keep ourselves motivated and on-track.

With this in mind, let’s take a look at some fun accessories that are perfect for workouts. Pick up one, or two of these cool pieces; guaranteed to keep you going through the lazy days of summer!

Ladies! You know how important good hair bands are for keeping your hair out of the way when you’re doing your workout! These hair band bracelets from Active Accessories are sturdy and strong. Best of all, they won’t damage your hair! A must-have addition to your summer gym kit.

Let’s face it, your phone is a big part of your workout routine, but it can be difficult to carry it around with you the whole time. A phone holder like this water resistant armband is an ideal solution, allowing you to keep your phone on your arm for safekeeping while you’re running or tackling the weights! Armbands aren’t for you? Consider thisDimok Running Belt Waist Pack if you’d rather stash your stuff at your waist.

An exercise mat will make your on-the-floor workouts more comfortable and fun. Plus, it’s a lot more hygienic! An exercise mat provides a layer of protection between you and the gym floor, and having you own mat will let you do your routine anywhere! Choose a mat with an inspirational saying, or get something a bit more lighthearted. This Getting Pizza Exercise Mat is a great way to show the world that you have your priorities in order!

Can you ever have too many bags? A new gym bag is a great way to jazz up your workout and is the perfect mid-summer pick-me-up. This Everest Gym Bag includes a wet pocket, so it’s ideal for both the gym and pool.

If you’re hitting the gym, you’ll need to make sure you’re getting your post-workout protein in. This Bulu Blender Bottle is an inexpensive and simple solution for making fast and easy shakes on-the-go. The perfect way to shake up your workout routine!

Adding resistance bands to your workout can be a great way to build strength. Since resistance bands are lightweight and portable, you can easily take them with you anywhere, even when you travel. Squeeze in an intense workout wherever you are without the need for a gym or machines. These resistance bands from Black Mountain will allow you to do exercises that are designed to target your biceps, triceps, chest, upper/lower back, abs/core, and legs. The workout potential is endless!

Love to swim? Who doesn’t this time of year! Whether you’re doing laps in the pool, or watersports at the beach, you can bring your tunes along with theUnderwater Audio Waterproof iPod Shuffle. The Shuffle is comfortable and easy to wear, just clip the iPod on your suit or goggles, and you’re good to go. Perfect for swimming, surfing, or dancing in the rain!

Cost: About $190.00

Whether you have travel plans this summer or are going to be doing a staycation, make your August workouts enjoyable with some of these fun items. Summer comes just once a year, so be sure to make the most of it; these gadgets and accessories will have you feeling comfortable, relaxed, and ready to go this season!

Have you tried any of these products? We’d love to know what you think in the comment section below!

Blueberries may be small, but this little fruit packs a powerful punch!

While blueberries are often regarded as a superfood; this wasn’t always the case. The once-humble blueberry’s journey from relative obscurity to popularity wasn’t until 1916 when the berry wasfirst cultivated commercially. Soon, blueberry mania was sweeping the country, as blueberries were being sold across the states. Today, blueberries can be found almost everywhere and in everything from muffins and cereals to bath products and even pet food. Why is this? What’s the story behind our love of this fruit? More importantly, do these berries deserve their reputation as one of the world’s most powerful superfoods?

With this in mind let’s uncover some of the facts surrounding the blueberry and its nutritional content. Here’s why you’ll want to think about adding blueberries to the menu more often!

Benefits of the Blueberry: What’s the Scoop?

When it comes to blueberries, there’s a surprising amount of goodness that’s packed into one small berry! Blueberries are loaded with nutrients; including trace amounts of micronutrients like manganese as well as vitamins A, K, B-6; and a significant amount of Vitamin C which functions as an antioxidant. While it’s long been known that Vitamin C can help to strengthen the immune system, this vitamin also improves the production of collagen for healthy and smooth skin and contributes to gum health. Blueberries are also packed with dietary fiber. One cup of the berries has about 3.6 grams.Research indicates that blueberries may also provide cardiovascular benefits, raising HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering LDL. Blueberries are also related to lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels and may also assist in the prevention of macular degeneration as well as urinary tract infections. No wonder this berry has such a positive reputation!

Blueberries and Cognitive Function

Next, let’s look at the cognitive benefits that blueberries have to offer. Cognitive function tends to decline with age, but research indicates that it’s better preserved by eating a diet rich in plant-based foods.One recent study indicates that blueberries, or concentrated blueberry juice, could help to improve brain function in older people. Whenscientists researched blueberries for their antioxidant activity, looking for delayed and reversed signs of age-related cognitive decline, they concluded that blueberries might help to protect against deficits in both memory and motor function.

Blueberries and Mental Health

In addition to the range of health benefits that have been associated with blueberries over the years, there’s another area where these berries have been shown to offer a strong level of support: mental health.

Few things are more damaging than stress; especially when you’re down. This can lead to a frustrating spiral that can be difficult to break; one that drains you both mentally and physically.

During stressful situations, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that is produced by the adrenal gland. Cortisol travels to the brain; providing an emotional response. Blueberries, though,can help to counter the effects of this hormone’s impact on your mood. Interestingly, blueberries are also loaded with antioxidants known asanthocyanins which can help to boost brain function.

Finally, high consumption of fruits and vegetables has long been associated with better mental health and mitigating depression. Blueberries specifically, though, have been shown to have a measurable effect on positive mood within justtwo hours of eating them.

Whether or not blueberries can make an acute difference in mood, evidence shows that there are plenty of reasons to feel positively toward these berries. It’s no secret that at the very least, blueberries can lead to improved health overall; providing you with valuable nutrients and antioxidants that are essential for health and well-being.

It’s easy to see whysome nutritionists believe that if you make only one change to your diet it should be the addition of blueberries. So go ahead, get some of these berries for yourself, and start looking for ways to work them into your diet. They’re great in smoothies, with yogurt, in savory dishes, or even on their own. Whether you eat them frozen, fresh, or straight off of the bush there are plenty of benefits to be gained from this small yet powerful superfood!

Do you love blueberries? We’d love to hear from you! Tell us your favorite way to enjoy them in the comments below.

Weight loss pills sound great, like a quick fix without having to do the whole “exercise” thing. However, it’s hard to tell how the pills will actually work, if they’re safe and what supplement is right for you! If you’re anything like us, you want to make sure the supplements you are using are not only effective but right for your body.

There are things to look out for when searching for the right diet or weight loss pill but, don’t worry, we did all the work for you!

Different diet pills do different things, for example, some help to curb your appetite which causes you to eat less. Others boost your metabolism or work as supplements to reduce hunger and the urge to eat. When choosing a weight loss pill, it’s important to know which one is best for you. According to positivehealthwellness.com, appetite suppression pills are favored above other weight loss pills because they send signals to your brain that you aren’t as hungry as you should be.

Weight loss pills that boost your metabolism help your body burn more calories throughout the day. Using these, you can eat the same quantity of food, but your body will burn it faster than without the metabolism boost.

In order to safely take weight loss pills of either kind, you need to know how many calories your body needs every day. This can vary depending on how often you workout, how much weight you are trying to lose, and the standard caloric intake for adults.

WE LOVE M2 Thermogenic Fat Burner precisely because it is the best of both worlds. This caffeine based fat-burner both suppresses appetite and boosts metabolism to shed those unwanted pounds! Designed for both men and women, M2 Thermogenic Fat Burner gets rid of that pesky fat by targeting fat receptor sites and releasing stored fat. Even better, M2 Thermogenic Fat Burner is formulated with all natural ingredients, providing your body with clean energy and safe but effective results! Shop M2 Thermogenic Fat Burner here.

Peter Horvath, Ph.D., associate professor in the department of exercise and nutrition sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo told WebMD that, “Whey is the most commonly used, because it’s a water-soluble milk protein,” says Peter Horvath, PhD, associate professor in the department of exercise and sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo. “It’s also a complete protein, so it’s got all those advantages.” Complete proteins have all 9 amino acids we need to meet our dietary needs!

Milk has two proteins: casein and whey. Whey can be separated from casein, and whey is also a byproduct of cheese production!

Okay, so now we know what Whey Powder is and why people love it so much. But how can it benefit you specifically? Let’s break it down to see the benefits of Whey Protein.

Weight Loss

Studies show that consuming whey protein can lead to faster weight loss and an ability for the body to retain and strengthen lean muscle.

2. Anti-Cancer Properties

Although more research is needed, promising results were found through using whey protein in anti-cancer treatments.

3. Asthma

Yet another developing method of care for children with asthma is whey protein! A study published in the International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition found that children with asthma who were given 10 grams of whey protein twice daily for a month had an improved immune response.

Whey protein has many more advantages and dozens more are being developed.

Though we should be careful when using whey as a protein supplement, negative effects are mainly tied to allergy restrictions. Being a milk protein, those who are lactose-sensitive or lactose-intolerant should not use this as a protein supplement. Some are also specifically allergic to whey, so you should consult with a professional if you aren’t sure if you are allergic or not. Normal consumption of whey protein shouldn’t cause any adverse effects, but over-consumption of large quantities of whey protein can cause stomach pain, cramps, reduced appetite, nausea, headache and fatigue.

Next question: What Whey Protein Powder is right for me?

So many whey powders, so little time! However, we recommend using Micronamin AR -15 Whey Protein Powder for your whey protein needs. With 24 grams of protein, 6 grams of BCAA’s (Branch Chain Amino Acids), 5.5 grams of glutamine and 2 grams of creatine per serving, Micronamin AR-15 Whey Protein Powder contains the highest quality ingredients for the best results.

BCAA’s are vital for stimulating protein synthesis in the body. Glutamine preserves muscle tissue and is essential for the growth and maintenance of lean muscle. Micronamin AR-15 is formulated for those who wish to build muscle, or just the everyday person who wants to gain strength and lose some weight. Better yet, Micronamin AR-15 works closely with veterans and donates a portion of the profits to aiding non-profit veteran organizations!

When it comes to fitness/working out/going to the gym, most of us are just satisfied with the fact that we actually made it to the gym that day. We leave all of the protein powders, the pre-workout powders and special formulas to the meatheads. What you may not have known are the many benefits that pre-workout powders can have for the average gym-goer!

Don’t believe us? Well, let’s take a closer look at what pre-workout powder is, and what it does!

Why use pre-workout?

Pre-workout is a combination of ingredients designed to make you feel different when you work out. By “different” we’re talking about a major energy boost. Pre-workout is like a boost of energy that allows you to workout that much harder. People who regularly use workout supplements do this to gain muscle faster and workout that much harder to get the body they want.

Having an extra boost that lets you work harder and get the results you want sounds great, and it is! However, there are some things to look out for when deciding what pre-workout to use. Pay attention to the ingredients. Many protein powders contain energy boosters like creatine, caffeine and Beta-alanine. These ingredients are not in-and-of-themselves dangerous, however, moderation should be observed because too much can be dangerous. More importantly, you should look out for illegal additives found in some supplements on the market. Specifically, amphetamine-like stimulants. Even products that contain all legal ingredients may have included large quantities of caffeine which can be dangerous for the heart.

When it comes down to it, what pre-workout is the right fit?

We recommend Micronamin 12 Gauge – Extreme Pre-Workout! With 16 fully-dosed ingredients, this pre-workout is formulated to boost endurance, energy, strength and focus! With fast activation, you’ll start to feel its positive effects after just five minutes. Micronamin formulated this pre-workout supplement for anyone, whether it be the jocks or the everyday gym goer! Because of this, they stress safety and recommend taking Nitric Oxide with this pre-workout to maintain healthy blood flow while supercharging your workouts! Shop Micronamin 12 Gauge – Extreme Pre-Workout here.

Have You Tried Micronamin 12 Gauge – Extreme Pre-Workout? Let Us Know What You Think In The Comments Below!

If you’re looking to get into a healthy new routine, then the ultra-popular Paleo diet may seem like a great option! A chance to get back to basics while cutting out modern processing, additives, and other nasties that we all know are bad for us.

Based on things that our hunter-gatherer ancestors would have presumably eaten way back in the day, the Paleo diet involves adhering as closely as possible to what our diets would have looked like before the advent of farming. This diet’s packed with things that could have either been hunted or gathered including meat, fish, nuts, veggies, and some fruit. It also does away with the modern staples of grains, processed foods, sugar, and usually dairy as well.

While going Paleo can be a healthy lifestyle change for some, the truth is that the benefits will vary greatly depending upon your individual approach and how well this diet suits your body and lifestyle.

If you’re considering Paleo and wondering if you could reap the benefits of this diet then you’ll want to ensure that you’re doing it in a healthy and manageable way!

Fire up the grill! Here’s what you should know about going Paleo and five mistakes you’ll want to avoid along the way!

Not Replacing Nutrients

Perhaps the biggest controversy surrounding Paleo is the fact that it involves giving up some very prominent food groups, particularly dairy and grains. While there’s much debate about the importance of these foods in your diet what isn’t open for discussion is the necessity of the nutrients found in these groups. If you’re cutting out these food groups, make sure you replace them with others to ensure that you’ll still be getting the nutrients! A good way to get started with Paleo is by easing into it. Start by eating more veggies to maintain your fiber intake. Stock up on nutritional powerhouses like dark, leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts, and look to get vitamin D from egg yolks and mushrooms.

Failing to Plan

As with anything in life, failing to plan is, well, planning to fail! With the Paleo diet, this is certainly the case. You can’t simply eliminate grains and dairy and expect great results. In fact, many of the benefits of Paleo are due to eating more nutrient-dense foods rather than just cutting things out. Finding success with Paleo starts with careful planning. This includes making a meal plan, buying ingredients, and ensuring that you’re getting enough variety to make this diet beneficial and sustainable.

Not Being a Careful Shopper

Don’t fall for the packaged foods! Just because a box says it is “gluten free” doesn’t mean it’s Paleo-friendly. In most cases, it’s best to avoid processed foods altogether and choose whole foods like grass-fed meat, poultry, fish, and cage-free eggs. Stock up on a variety of veggies, some fresh fruits, and avocados. Look for healthy oils such as olive and coconut. Buy some nuts and purchase sweet potatoes and yams. This will give you a good variety of ingredients to work with, and lots of healthy options for making some delicious and nutritionally dense meals. Loaded omelets, chicken salads, and freshly grilled meat with a side of sweet potatoes, asparagus, and avocado are just a few amazing Paleo meal ideas.

Going All or Nothing With Food Quality

One thing that often holds people back from going Paleo is the cost. However, while it’s true that the best Paleo diet involves grass-fed beef and organic produce, you don’t have to break the bank to experience the benefits of this diet. If you can’t afford to stock your fridge with grass-fed meat, opting for grain-fed beef is still a better option than throwing in the towel and having pizza every night! Avoid processed food and instead try to focus on whole food alternatives like meat, eggs, nuts, fruits, and veggies. Try to shop at farmers markets. They’re often a lot more affordable than the store. You can experience many of the benefits of Paleo without spending a fortune.

Giving Up Portion Control

Paleo, when done correctly, will leave you feeling satisfied. Still, this doesn’t mean that you should throw portion sizes out the window! If you’re looking to lose weight with Paleo, remember that an ounce of nuts is still an ounce of nuts. It’s important to get a balance of protein, carbs, and nutrients; and to keep portion size in mind as well. Loading up on the wrong foods, neglecting veggies, and failing to get enough exercise can all lead to weight gain; even with Paleo.

Paleo-style eating offers a number of great qualities including a focus on whole foods, lean protein, veggies, and healthy fats. However, it’s not a silver bullet that’s designed to ensure health and success. Your best option may be to begin by embracing the best points of Paleo and slowly working them into your diet. See how you feel and how your body reacts. Learn what works for you. The best meal plan is one that will give you energy, strength, and health. Whether that’s Paleo or a different diet altogether is something that you’ll want to discover for yourself!

Feminine health. A slightly uncomfortable topic for some but don’t worry, we’re staying completely scientific with this one. Keeping that area healthy is very important, and pH levels play a huge role in this. How to avoid things that can throw off your pH balance down there, and how to maintain feminine health will be our focus for this post!

For starters, what is pH? Your body’s pH is the scale of acidity and alkalinity. The pH scale runs from 0-14, anything higher than 7 being of a low acidity (alkaline) and anything lower than a 7 being acidic. PH levels are present everywhere! For example, a lemon has a low pH level (or high acidity levels) while a loaf of bread has a high pH level (or low acidity levels).

In relation to vaginal health, a healthy pH level would be between 3.8 and 7, so a more acidic state is healthiest at your body’s natural state.

Why is this important?

Having the appropriate pH level is extremely important in relation to feminine health, as acidic levels aid the body in creating an environment for the healthy bacteria that keeps the vagina healthy and protects it from infections and diseases, as most harmful bacteria cannot survive this level of acidity. PH levels above a 4.5 can leave the vagina susceptible to yeast infections and inflammation. Yeah. Not comfy.

Feminine Products: Help or Harm?

Although the world is filled with products created to help get and maintain feminine health, some of these products can actually throw off your body’s pH level and cause irritation. Tampons seem harmless enough, however, they are both good and potentially harmful for your body. Although Tampons absorb menstrual fluid and bacteria, this can keep your body from maintaining healthy levels of good bacteria. This then gives the bad bacteria a surface to grow on. Some health experts suggest using a menstrual cup in place of a tampon, as a cup collects menstrual fluid instead of absorbing it. However, it’s not a guarantee that you will get an infection from using tampons, so to each their own!

Another area that could alter your body’s pH levels is douching. If you don’t know what douching means, it’s a device used to clean the inside of the vagina. Some women feel the need to do this, however, this can actually be harmful. Seeing as the vagina cleans itself, cleaning it “artificially” can reduce your body’s acidity levels and leave the area susceptible to infection. Also, the fragrances and materials used in these products can irritate the skin.

A healthy way we’ve found to maintain feminine health without reducing or altering your body’s pH levels is to use Genial Day organic feminine products and underwear! These liners, pads, and panties are all pH friendly, free of chemicals and are air-permeable. What sets Genial Day apart is their devotion to making feminine products that are good for your skin and fight harmful bacteria growth. We love these products because not only are they dermatologically tested to help maintain feminine hygiene healthy pH levels but also because they are eco-certified and environmentally friendly!

If you take your feminine hygiene as seriously as we do, we highly recommend giving these a try! Check out Genial Day’s full line of feminine products here.

Have you tried Genial Day Feminine Hygiene products? Tell us what you think!